Park News: March/April 1999 Spring Thaw Edition

Annual membership drive a success

In response to a mailing done in November, 96 households supported the Friends of Menotomy Rocks Park with membership dues and additional contributions. Their generosity raised $5,020 which will be invested in park projects. If you would like to join but didnt receive a letter at home, please contact us at the above address or on the web at www.townonline.com/arlington.

The membership form asked for comments, and many people had positive things to say about FMRP efforts to maintain and improve the park. Some asked for more hands-on projects, such as the path restoration carried out last fall. The fields, paths, and walls were cited as areas that need improvement. In terms of possible additions to the park, more benches near the playground were viewed as desirable, whereas night-time lighting and porta-potties were not. Several approved of the new signs reminding dog owners of Town laws; others cautioned that uncontrolled dogs are sometimes a nuisance.

FMRP seeks new board members

FMRP is seeking energetic, park-centered volunteers to fill three open seats on its board. For information call Anne Tulimieri, chair of the nominating committee (646-1420), or committee members MaryAnna Foskett (646-5882) or Jane Howard (648-1936).

Woodlands pass informal inspection

Charles Thompson of the New England Forestry Foundation toured the park in late January with several members of the FMRP board. He found the woodlands to be in basically good condition, with the exception of hazardous tree branches that threaten to fall on several well-traveled paths. He also recommended that pines be planted as an understory in areas where old stands of oak now predominate.

Go, Turtles, go!

On April 29, the Menotomy Rocks Turtles will once again represent the park in the annual spelling bee held to benefit the Arlington Educational Enrichment Fund. All proceeds from the bee are used to supplement programs in the Arlington public schools. Turtle members are MaryAnna Foskett, Charlotte Pierce, and Delores Scheuler. The team’s $300 entry fee comes from private donations, not from the FMRP treasury.